The fuel can provide a CO2 emission reduction of up to approximately 40% compared with conventional petroleum-based very-low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) marine fuel, calculated on an energy basis, according to the company.
The marine bio fuel oil is a 0.50% sulphur residual-based fuel (VLSFO) processed with a second-generation waste-based FAME component (ISCC certified) - and will be available later this year – initially in Rotterdam - before wider launch across the ExxonMobil port network.
The sea trial also demonstrated that the marine bio fuel oil can be used in a relevant marine application without modification. The Stena Bulk sea trial was carried out while the vessel was in commercial operation. The trial included evaluation of on-board storage, handling, and treatment and the fuel was consumed in engines and other machinery on-board.
Erik Hånell, president and CEO of Stena Bulk, reported: “The fuel performed very well and fitted seamlessly into our technical and commercial operation without the need for engine modifications or additional procedures, while contributing to a significant reduction of CO2 emissions.”
John Larese, marine fuels technical advisor at ExxonMobil added: “As a residual fuel, it can be dropped-in without the need for expensive modification and can help provide ship operators immediate CO2 savings compared to full hydrocarbon fuel.”
He also said that the trial also involved collaboration with the OEMs, the vessel’s classification society and flag state.